May 1, 2023

View Megan Schneider's Faculty Profile

What has inspired you to train the next generation of leaders?
Public health inspires me in PA education. I fell in love with public health when I took a course on the subject in undergrad, which led me to complete a dual PA-Public Health degree. I just love the idea of getting “upstream” to solve health problems. When I started working in an emergency department, I knew that it was not going to be the best place to meet my public health goals but would be an important place to hone my clinical skills. After several years, I decided to switch gears and find something more public health oriented. This led me to PA education. I love working with our incredibly smart and motivated PA students, and I also love that it allows me to get “upstream” in the healthcare system by training even more PAs.

How has education and practice shifted over the last five years?
I am most excited by the work we are doing to diversify the PA profession. For the best patient outcomes, it is important for the PA profession to be reflective of the general population. The PA profession has done a good job recognizing this and developing resources to recruit and retain people of color in the profession.

How do you prioritize health equity in the curriculum and practice?
One way I do this is by making sure that health disparities show up in our instructional objectives for topics where they exist. I think it is impossible to attain health equity if we turn a blind eye to where we need to improve.

Do you have a favorite restaurant, museum or location in Philadelphia where you enjoy spending time?
The place I am happiest is on my bike. I love riding all over Philadelphia! I especially love my new bicycle commute since our move to the Health Sciences Building. I ride from my home in South Philly, through Rittenhouse, over the Schuylkill River to University City. It’s the best way to start and end the work day!

What do you wish students knew before arriving for their first year of study?
I think it is important for students to have a strong self-care regimen prior to beginning the PA program. Knowing the things that refresh you and embedding them into your schedule, even when things are busy, is a critical tool for success. Additionally, this skill will continue to be important when working as a PA-C, too!